The upcoming buyout window in the NHL opens 48 hours after the Stanley Cup is awarded, and several players are prime candidates for buyouts. T.J. Brodie of the Chicago Blackhawks faces a potential buyout due to overpopulation on the blueline, costing the team a manageable cap hit over the next two years. Pierre Engvall, who signed a controversial seven-year deal with the New York Islanders, might not see the end of it given his underwhelming performance. Matt Dumba from the Dallas Stars is also on the chopping block as the team looks to alleviate cap space, with the option of a buyout looming if they fail to trade him.

Chicago's Joe Veleno is another young talent who could be let go due to a favorable buyout structure that would save the Blackhawks cash flow. The St. Louis Blues' Mathieu Joseph is caught in a similar predicament, with a buyout allowing them to maximize cap space. Detroit's Justin Holl signed a contract that has not panned out, and a buyout may be a route they take. Lastly, Marc-Édouard Vlasic from the San Jose Sharks, despite being a long-tenured player, may face a buyout as the Sharks navigate their roster and salary cap situation.